"Tuesday," a debut film by Daina O. Pusić, is a heart-rending fairy tale that brings an unusual and profound story to the screen. Julia Louis-Dreyfus delivers a profoundly moving performance as a mother navigating the depths of grief alongside her teenage daughter, played by Lola Petticrew. Together, they must confront Death, which takes the astonishing form of a talking bird, making for a deeply emotive narrative about loss and resilience.
From the very start, "Tuesday" captivates with its unique premise. The choice of a parrot as the messenger of death is as peculiar as it is intriguing, creating a blend of whimsy and poignancy rarely seen in cinema. While this avian figure, voiced with a surprising resemblance to Vin Diesel, can sometimes be a distraction, it ultimately adds to the film's dreamlike quality.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, known for her versatility, brings an emotional depth to her role that anchors the film's more fantastical elements. Her performance is complemented by Lola Petticrew, who, despite being 25 at the time of filming, convincingly portrays a 15-year-old, evoking a resemblance to Joey King as a young Gypsy Rose Blanchard.
The soundtrack, dominated by Ice Cube, is an unexpected but fitting choice, enhancing the film's modern fairy tale atmosphere. The music, combined with the film's visual style, occasionally reminiscent of "Three Thousand Years of Longing," creates an otherworldly feel that underscores the narrative's emotional weight.
However, "Tuesday" is not without its flaws. The pacing is slow, at times feeling drawn out as it builds towards an inevitable conclusion. The CGI, while ambitious, occasionally looks wonky, detracting from the otherwise immersive experience. The film’s tone can be erratic, oscillating between humor and heartbreak, which might be jarring for some viewers.
Despite these issues, the film's ambition and emotional core shine through. It is a polarizing piece, one that may not resonate with everyone, but it undoubtedly leaves a lasting impression. Films like "Tuesday" remind us to hold our loved ones a little tighter, each hug lingering a bit longer.
In the end, "Tuesday" is a modern fairytale that, while not perfect, marks a solid debut for Daina O. Pusić. It's a story of love, loss, and the unexpected ways we find resilience, making it a film that, despite its oddities, deeply moves and resonates.
Jessie Hobson